As part of a student exchange programme between the Global College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) in Oman and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), supported by a grant from The British Omani Society, Omani students visited the UK in April 2026 to explore urban sustainability and climate resilience. Through workshops, field visits and cultural exchange activities, participants gained valuable academic and practical insights while building connections with peers and professionals. In this blog series, the students share their experiences, reflections and key takeaways from their time in the UK.
Blog written by Lujain Al Abri
I knew this exchange program would be a fantastic opportunity before I traveled to the UK, but I had no idea it would have such a profound effect on me. .jpg)
In retrospect, I see that it was more than just traveling to new places. It was about making moments I would always cherish, learning from diverse viewpoints, and getting to know amazing people. Our trip started in Bristol. After checking in and settling into our hotel, we took a stroll around the surrounding area. It was my first time visiting the city, and I was instantly enamored with its serene ambiance. I was thrilled about what lay ahead as I strolled along the river, watched the boats go by, and explored the neighborhood's streets and stores. That evening, we had dinner with a group of UWE students who had previously visited Oman through the exchange program, as well as several lecturers. At first, I was a little nervous because it was my first time meeting them, but that feeling disappeared quickly. The conversations felt natural and enjoyable. We spoke about university life, our cultures, hobbies, and even the little differences between life in Oman and the UK. It was the perfect start to building friendships and understanding each other's backgrounds.
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Visiting the SS Great Britain was one of the highlights of my vacation. Entering it for the first time was an amazing experience because I had only ever seen ships like this in movies and photos. The dining halls, kitchen, cabins, and other spaces made history feel authentic. I could visualize how people lived in the past rather than just reading about it. We also visited the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol Cathedral, which deepened my appreciation for Bristol's history and character. Visiting UWE Bristol was another memorable part of the exchange. We explored the campus, met students our age, and even joined one of their classes. What I enjoyed most was discussing the projects they were working on and the challenges they had faced. It didn't feel like a formal meeting; it felt like students learning from one another. We exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and discussed our cultures, making it both educational and enjoyable.
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Bath is unquestionably my favorite place if I had to pick just one. It felt like the ideal location for me because I've always loved smaller cities and the outdoors. I enjoyed visiting Sally Lunn's House, strolling its quaint alleyways, and taking in the historic architecture. The city has a distinct aura where modernity and heritage coexist. As a student of urban and regional planning, I couldn't help but be impressed by how meticulously the city has maintained its identity while still welcoming tourists from around the globe.
Later, we traveled to London, where we visited Buckingham Palace and explored the surrounding area. Although London was much busier than Bristol and Bath, I enjoyed experiencing a completely different side of the UK. Every city had its own personality, which I truly appreciated throughout the trip. Visiting the British Omani Society was one of the most motivating experiences. We attended talks on projects and partnerships between Oman and the UK, and were cordially greeted.
Two of our classmates also presented a contrast in urban planning between the two nations, sparking thought-provoking conversations. After that, we moved on to a sustainable growth project, where I learned about the concepts, challenges, and solutions that contributed to its success. During the tour, I asked some questions, and hearing the responses made it easier for me to relate what I study in college to ongoing projects. In my opinion, this was one of the most insightful learning experiences of the exchange. Beyond the academic pursuits, this school provided me with something even more significant. It allowed me to travel by various modes of transportation, meet people from all walks of life, experience daily life in a foreign nation, and venture beyond my comfort zone. Every discussion, every visit, and every novel encounter enabled me to develop in unexpected ways.
I returned to Oman with much more than photographs and souvenirs. I came back with new friendships, greater confidence, fresh ideas, and a broader perspective on the world. This exchange reminded me that some of the best lessons are learned outside the classroom, simply by staying open to new experiences and connecting with people from different cultures. It is an experience I will always be grateful for, and it has motivated me even more to keep learning and growing, both personally and professionally.